City defeated Villa 2-0 as a first-half Elano penalty and an 89th minute Shaun Wright-Phillips goal wrapped up the points in Manchester.

Hughes has been forced to deal with a weight of expectation at City following the arrival of billionaire owners the Abu Dhabi United Group at the beginning of the season and his team has come in for criticism following an inconsistent campaign.

City have especially struggled on the road this term, recording only one away league win, but Hughes sees increasing signs for encouragement after denting Villa's hopes of booking a place in Europe's most prestigious club competition.

"When we do click, and we certainly did that tonight, we are an exciting team to watch and we have goals in the side and great ability," Hughes told Sky Sports.

Threat

"When you have those threats, there is a chance you can develop and grow into a good team, and that is what I hope we will do."

Hughes also poured praise on the performances of outstanding centre-back Richard Dunne and the lively Wright-Phillips.

Dunne was immense at the heart of the City defence after recently returning from suspension, while Wright-Phillips caught the eye on his return from a delayed three-match ban incurred after kicking out against Stoke's Rory Delap.

"Dunny was immense. In the second half he helped the back four remain strong and was at the heart of it," added Hughes.

"He has had a little bit of criticism this year. But since he has come back from his suspension he has been excellent for us.

"Shaun has obviously been missing in the Premier League and we missed his threat. You saw his ability in abundance today."